“I wish more women would become financial advisers; it’s an excellent career but it’s not an easy life. The profession is dominated by men, but I urge women who begin a career in finance not to emulate the way men work. Women tend to have a unique skill set that is ideally suited to this role, and the ability to really listen and understand a client’s needs. To make life easier I would find a mentor: a woman, if you can.”
Christina Brady – Associate Director
“I’m proud to be a woman in finance. For almost 20 years now, I’ve been offering my support and advice to a wide range of clients, most notably expats living in Spain.
My advice to women starting in the financial services is: know your worth. Don’t try and conform to how others do things – be the best version of yourself and play to your strengths. Now more than ever you’re going to be dealing with female clients and you will be able to use your innate empathy to build a relationship of trust.
Also, be resilient. You may spend a lot of time answering questions on subjects outside of your area of expertise. It can be a hectic job with long hours so don’t forget to make time for yourself, whether that’s doing yoga, reading or enjoying a nice big glass of Rioja!
Lucia Melgarejo – International Financial Adviser
“Women need to support women. Share knowledge, share experiences and share insights – it’s this foundation that yields the most success, the best reputations and the highest levels of integrity.
I would sum up my approach to a career in finance as follows:
- Never sell yourself short
- Step up and take responsibility
- Know your objectives
- Pick a female mentor
- Run your own race
Working in financial services can present endless opportunities for those who cultivate positive, enduring relationships, always keep learning and put their clients at the heart of every effort.”
Manuela Robinson – Joint Country Manager
“Always be yourself, because that’s your biggest strength. Don’t think of yourself as a woman in a man’s world because you’re not – you’re an equally qualified individual and never forget it. Sometimes a woman is at an advantage in that we have a different set of skills, whether you’re a partner, mother, family organizer, party planner, listener or a friend!”
Rosemary Sheppard – International Financial Adviser
Expat financial advice providers and their clients need to be especially vigilant to ensure that they meet their legal obligations under the newly updated Common Reporting Standard (CRS), which will come into effect in September 2018.
r there is the consensus of all the experts saying the same thing. If the UK exits the EU after the referendum in June, then there will not be that much of a change as impact will be felt on both sides (it will be as bad for Europe as it is for the UK). If the UK stay in, then there should be some sort of a rebound back to fair value levels to around the €1.40/£1 mark. If this is the case, you should really try to hold off buying Euros until after the referendum.